To help boost America's lagging economy at this critical moment in history, Congressman Zach Wamp (R-Tenn) voted for the Bipartisan Trade Promotion Authority Act of 2001.

"I still have concerns about many aspects of trade promotion authority --like giving Most Favored Nation status to countries that do not share our same commitment to human rights and individual liberties -- but President Bush personally called me Wednesday morning asking for my support and making a compelling case for this authority. I trust this President and while I do not ordinarily support the expansion of these trade agreements, I know we are living in extraordinary times that call for special consideration and decisive action. Our national security and our economic security must be our highest priority," said Wamp.

"After seriously wrestling with this decision for several weeks, I decided to vote "yes" on Trade promotion Authority because our country simply must lead the world economy and encourage the exportation of American goods and services," continued Wamp.

Trade Promotion Authority does not give "carte blanche" to the President and the Executive Branch, but it allows America to speak with one voice in negotiating trade agreements with other countries.

Trade Promotion Authority permits the President to negotiate trade agreements with expedited procedures for enacting the legislation and Congress must deliberate trade agreements with mandatory deadlines, no amendments, and limited debate. The President is still required to consult with congressional committees during negotiation and notify Congress before entering into an agreement.

 "America is officially in a recession, yet the President has one hand tied behind his back. Congress has the opportunity to loosen the shackles binding the President and the American economy by passing Trade Promotion Authority," added Republican Conference Chairman J.C.Watts (R-OK).

"The world economy will rise or fall based on the American economy. President George W. Bush is demonstrating excellent leadership and it is important that the world see us united on critical global issues, such as national security and trade," said Wamp.